Uniting an Option - Maori Party Presidential Candidate

George Ngatai, co-chair of the Tamaki
Makaurau electorate for the Maori Party who is standing for
party president says Māori must have a united voice in
order to achieve maximum parliamentary representation in the
2014 general election.

“To me, uniting with any
political party or group who has a shared kaupapa
(principles/policies) with the Maori Party makes sense, but
ultimately it is up to our electorate members to decide.

“We must first consult with our people about their
preferences as soon as we are able. Based on that outcome,
we can then decide on our position,” said Mr Ngatai.

He
acknowledges that as well as other factors, the party
leadership challenge was one issue that affected the outcome
of the Ikaroa-Rawhiti by-election for their candidate Na
Raihania.

“The party must accept some responsibility for
a disappointing result. Na is an exceptional candidate. He
personifies the principles and aspirations of our people and
the Maori Party. In hindsight, he was faced with issues that
were beyond his control yet he still ran a solid and
credible campaign.” Mr Ngatai said.

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